MAYFIELD MUSE / / MATILDA SHALDERS of BILBY, BELMONT

Name: Matilda Shalders

Shop name: Bilby Belmont

Year founded?: My wholesale business began in 2023 and I opened the cakery in 2024. 

Where did the name Bilby come from?: My younger sister has always called me Bilby and from there it became my family nickname. Growing up I constantly baked with my family, it was a way of connecting with and showing love. When it came time to decide on a shop name Bilby was my obvious choice.

What inspired you to start your cakery?: To create my own community and make my day-to-day life more beautiful! 

Your cakery in three words: Feminine, bright and inspiring. 

Favourite treat you sell?: Anything with pistachio or rose! I'm obsessed with pistachio cake topped with fresh berries and rose infused cream.

Tea or Coffee?: Coffee, piccolo with chocolate on top please!

We love Bilby's interiors; did you style it?: Yes, I've always been drawn towards vintage interiors, I daydream about the previous owners who they were and the lives they had. I also adore the craft that has gone into producing a one off piece.

Who is your fashion icon/muse?: It's hard to name one person, I feel like it changes with my mood or season. I love Sophia Loren's attitude of embracing your classic femininity and Monica Belluci as a modern day screen siren. 

Have you read or listened to anything great lately?: When I'm at home I always listen to Lana del Rey to romanticise my day to day life. If I'm out walking I listen to a podcast called My Therapist Ghosted me, hosted by two hilarious Irish women, when I'm listening to it l feel like I'm hanging out with my sisters and best friend!

Favourite holiday destination?: Italy forever! The best weather, stunning buildings, most stylish people and delicious food. 

Proudest career moment to date?: Opening my venue and learning to believe in myself.

You are always so happy, what keeps you smiling?: I'm very lucky to come from a family of strong women who have worked hard and are generally positive. I love working for myself and being independent, making my own way as a female business owner is my way of contributing to this and empowering myself just as they did. This is a constant source of inspiration for me, it's my daily life and I'm very lucky to be able to live it.

You can visit Bilby in Belmont here.

You can also follow Matilda and Bilby on instagram @bilby_belmont